The City of Kigali with its partners, the French Development Agency (AFD) and the European Union, have officially launched the Urban Fabric Initiative (UFI) in Kagugu settlement. This initiative forms a crucial part of the broader Kigali Informal Settlement Upgrading Project (KISUP).

The groundbreaking agreements with AFD and the EU, signed on 24^th March 2023 and 19^th May 2023 respectively with the Government of Rwanda, set the stage for this ambitious project. KISUP is designed to pilot in the unplanned settlements of Kagugu, and Rwezamenyo /Nyakabanda, with the project’s sub-component (UFI) focusing on small-scale, yet impactful public space enhancements and community infrastructure projects. These projects ranging from Playgrounds, markets and community lavatories are collaboratively designed and executed by local residents and urban stakeholders, emphasizing quick wins and participatory development.  

The Mayor of the City of Kigali, Mr. DUSENGIYUMVA Samuel stressed that the launch of the Urban Fabric Initiatives marks a significant step for the City towards its pursuit of sustainable urban development. He added that the program is in line with City of Kigali’s overall mission of ensuring the well-being of its citizens through the provision of adequate public social economic facilities.

The EU Ambassador to Rwanda, Belén CALVO UYARRA noted that; ‟Under its Global Gateway Strategy, the EU and France, as members of Team Europe, are pleased to support Rwanda’s ambitions in sustainable urbanisation”. Attracted by its innovative nature and the potential for broad community and stakeholder engagement to achieve significant outcomes, EU in partnership with AFD decided to finance UFI through an EU delegated grant.  

“The Urban Fabric Initiative represents an innovative approach, enabling the invention and testing of urban micro-actions that are co-designed and implemented by city stakeholders. A Strong partnership between stakeholders synergizing different efforts is the main engine to the success of the Urban Fabric Initiative,“ said the French Ambassador Antoine ANFRÉ. He added; "Together, we could positively change our cities through the build of resilient, inclusive, and sustainable urban environments comfortable for all residents."

This 3 years program of Urban Fabric Initiatives shall deliver community infrastructure that responds to the daily challenges faced by the citizens. In addition, it is expected that the participatory approach that will be used will ensure the sustainability of the developed facilities thanks to the community ownership and increase of their skills for maintenance.

As this transformative journey begins, the City of Kigali invites stakeholders from across Rwanda and beyond to join efforts in shaping the future of cities.